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backpack & packing

  1. The Shoulder Harness System: the first essential component for a good backpack

    Note: Hip belt systems are important, but that is not the focus of this thread. That will be a separate discussion later on. This is an edited version of an earlier post I had written. There are currently a few discussions taking place about the cost of backpacks. . . dirt cheap low cost...
  2. F

    $31 pack?

    Never heard of Samit. No internal frame but... for $31 let's see what can go wrong. https://www.walmart.com/ip/SAMIT-Hiking-Backpack-Waterproof-Men-40L-Camping-Rain-Cover-Lightweight-Travel-Outdoor-Women-Black/801109359
  3. Ultimate Direction Fastpack 30

    Does anyone have any experience with the UD Fastpack 30? I did a quick search and only pulled up one reference in our forum. I'm looking into possibly switching from a day pack to a vest type pack. I like the idea of those pockets up front but really have no experience with these types of packs...
  4. Talon 33 vs Tempest 34.... help me decide, please

    Hey there! Last year I walked the Camino with my Mira 32 backpack by Osprey. I love the mesh back panel and side pockets but the pack seemed a little short and round for my liking. I'm now wanting to try out another backpack and am stuck between the Talon 33 and Tempest 34, in both their...
  5. Gossamer Gear backpack options

    Hello! I am walking the Camino Primitivo in September 2022 for 14 days. I’ve done a fairly exhaustive search for a backpack that was lightweight and would easily pass carry-on regulations. I’ve narrowed it down to Gossamer Gear backpacks and would love input on if you’ve had experience with...
  6. Using a larger Backpack, just not filling it up. Thoughts?

    Greetings. I plan on doing the Northern route and connecting to the Primitivo from July 2nd to August 12th this summer...my first Camino. From previous hiking trips, I have a Columbia Endura 65L backpack. It's a very nice, professional pack...but it is bigger than most people recommend for a...
  7. My packing list

    I always like to read what other people pack because everyone is different and things that are important to one person are completely irrelevant to another. I marvel at how much some people spend and I also I enjoy reading about how much some people know about the latest Camino gear. So here is...
  8. Long Post - My Packing Considerations

    Hello All, I have been a Forum loiterer for a while now, but as my Camino approaches I feel the need to join the conversation more. A lot of discussion is held on here around packing / pack lists / 10% body weight / 15% skin out weight and so on so thought i would take everything i have learned...
  9. J

    Help me pick my pack! :)

    Hi!! My name's Jake and I'm hiking the Camino Frances from St. Jean in April/May. So excited! I'm picking out a pack this week. I've never bought a backpack before, so I'd love to hear about what packs worked for you and would appreciate any advice on the packs I'm looking at (shared below!)...
  10. Suggestions for Lightening my Backpack for a 6-day Camino Walk

    just weighed my all in, everything I think I need backpack and it came in at 7.85kg/17.2#. All opinions welcome. Picture below. I am a first time walker, walking May 29-June 3, travel days on either side. I will either be walking 6 days on the CF starting in Pamplona or 6 days Ingles, depending...
  11. Winter Packing List for a 4-Day Trek from Salamanca

    I know this has been done many many times but I will also add to the packing list fray! I am opening myself up to critic here as I could use some help. My pack is currently about 7.5kg without snacks and water. I worry that is too much and I should leave some stuff home. I will be walking from...
  12. Seeking input on Granite Gear and REI backpacks, et al.

    I am hiking the Camino Primitivo in September/October 2022 and seeking a backpack with the following features: 1. measurements suitable for carry-on for American and Iberian (22” x 15.75” x 9.84”) 2. light or ultralight (between 2-3.5 lbs) 3. practical features/organization (nothing too...
  13. Checking your backpack on flights

    Thought I’d share our solution since I spent way too much time thinking about this. Our 36 liter Osprey packs measured too large for carry-on with Lufthansa and I didn’t really want to carry them through the airport to a connecting flight. On the way to Porto I used the blue IKEA bags w/ zipper...
  14. What not to take? And what to not forget?

    As it is my first and very spontaneous camino (I’m off to Europe in few days), I am trying to do it as wisely as I can within my own time and research/planning limitations. I’m definitely thinking about traveling very light, but I am afraid of going too barebones… so here are some questions...
  15. Minimal Packing

    Hello! We are in the very beginning stages of planning our first Camino walk in the spring of 2023 on one of the Portuguese routes. I’d like to pack as little as possible and was considering staying in more hotels than albegueres for our first trip. That being said, what do you consider to be...
  16. Osprey Kyte 36 or Tempest 34

    Hi I am torn between these 2 backpacks. Has anyone used either or both and can share their experience? Thanks
  17. Backpack Capacity (DaveBugg Bait!)

    After many years of backpacks I have come to the conclusion that pack manufacturers may all be either drunk or part of a Matrix level conspiracy. How in the Holiest of Hecks do they determine the Litre capacity of backpacks? I have 28L packs that hold as much as one of my 40L packs in the main...
  18. My ultimate packing list

    Starting in SJPdP in 10 days, I finalized my pack, couldn't resist sharing it. The backpack is 28 lt. and with all the above (incl. daypack) it is only 2/3rd full
  19. B

    Backpack Advice: Fairview 40 vs. Aura 50

    Which Osprey bag is better for the Camino? I have a Fairview 40 and an Aura 50. Pros of the Fairview: smaller, more flexible. Cons of the Fairview: no spine or hip pockets. Pros of the Aura: tons of pockets, more room, spine. Cons of Aura: potentially too big for carry-on. I’m flying Icelandair...
  20. Has anyone tried Matador ultralight packs?

    I'm ultralight-curious and clicked on a Facebook ad for this company's line of ultralight backpacks. Has anyone tried them? https://matadorup.com/collections/ultralight-bags The Freerain32 particularly caught my eye because 32 liters is my preferred size. I love my Deuter ACT Trail 32 (now...